PENANG, June 20, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today that Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) has secured involvement in the development of one of the world’s largest gas fields in Turkmenistan, describing the deal as a landmark achievement resulting from Malaysia’s MADANI diplomacy.
The agreement, signed during Anwar’s official visit to Turkmenistan on June 19, deepens a 30-year partnership between the two nations. PETRONAS, through its subsidiary Petronas Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd, will participate in offshore blocks in the Caspian Sea, including production sharing agreements and 2D seismic studies for northern blocks.
Speaking at the 2026 National Journalists’ Day summit (Majlis Kemuncak Hari Wartawan Nasional), Anwar highlighted how strong bilateral ties and Malaysia’s reputation for technology sharing and reliable partnerships led to Turkmenistan granting PETRONAS access to major reserves. He noted that the deal secures long-term energy supplies for Malaysia while enhancing PETRONAS’s ability to export to key markets such as Japan, South Korea, and China.
“This success reflects high international confidence in Malaysia’s capabilities,” Anwar said in a post on X, crediting the MADANI approach for opening opportunities that benefit the nation and its people.
The Prime Minister personally engaged in negotiations, building on discussions that began two years ago during a visit by the Turkmenistan President to Kuala Lumpur. The expansion builds on PETRONAS’s existing operations in Block 1 of the Turkmen Caspian sector since 1996, where the company has invested billions in hydrocarbon development.
Industry observers view the deal as a significant win for Malaysia’s energy diplomacy, positioning PETRONAS among global leaders in gas development and helping address domestic supply concerns while generating substantial future revenue.
The announcement comes shortly after Anwar’s engagements in Russia, underscoring Malaysia’s proactive strategy to diversify and secure energy resources through neutral, pragmatic foreign policy.
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